15th-century Messenger's Case

A superb and rare messenger’s chest (or courier’s box / travel chest) made of openwork wrought iron over an oak core. France, dating from the Flamboyant Gothic period.

Structure and Ironwork:

The chest features a slightly barrel-vaulted lid. The wrought-iron structure is entirely covered with an openwork latticework pattern featuring orb-and-way motifs that echo the architectural elements of the Flamboyant Gothic style (window openings, lancets, and pointed arches). This makes it a rare find. The iron bands are secured with forged nails to an oak core.

Front and Locking Mechanism:

The front features a double-bolted lock with a locking mechanism.
The right pilaster pivots to reveal a small spring-loaded latch that unlocks the right bolt, exposing the keyhole and allowing the chest to be opened.
The lock is functional, but the key is missing.

Interior:

The interior retains its hand-assembled wooden frame, bearing the rough marks of period tools. A particularly remarkable feature for an object of this era: inside, the lid partially retains its original canvas lining.
On the exterior, the velvet encased beneath the metalwork displays a patina attesting to its authenticity.

Notes:

This type of case was historically used for the secure transport of dispatches, seals, letters, or precious objects by messengers on horseback.